Webster Ready Start is calling for donations to fund scholarships for the next school year, aiming to expand access to high-quality early childhood education. The program supports local early learning centers and trains staff to implement a Tier 1 curriculum, equipping children with essential skills for kindergarten. Research indicates that 90% of brain development occurs before kindergarten, emphasizing the importance of early learning.
The program supports students most at risk of being unprepared for school, including children from families who may struggle to afford childcare. Webster Ready Start serves children from newborn to five years old, helping them develop skills that improve academic outcomes, such as grade progression and high school graduation. Parents and businesses also benefit from the program, as parents can work while their children are in school, and businesses gain an expanded workforce and reduced absenteeism.
“Our Webster Ready Start network is a network of early learning centers and Head Start programs, and our pre-school classes at five of our elementary schools,” said Janene Corley, supervisor for early childhood education, at a recent city council meeting. “Webster Parish is a lead agency, acting as a liaison between the State Department of Education and our network partners.”
Last year, the program raised $2,750 through personal donations and contributions from local businesses. Matched by state funds, the total of $5,500 was enough to provide one child with a scholarship for one year. This year, Webster Ready Start aims to raise $10,500 by January 30, 2025, to secure state matching funds and provide scholarships for at least three students.
Emily Butler, a recent scholarship recipient, shared her experience: “I am a single mother of three, and before the scholarship, I constantly worried about affording weekly tuition,” said Butler. The scholarship allowed her to work full time and cover essential family expenses. “The money I was making before was only enough to pay for childcare, and I couldn’t get ahead.”
Butler noted the significant benefits for her children, including better socialization and learning routines that helped prepare them for school. “My 4-year-old, who is now in kindergarten, carried the skills he learned with him, and I’m so proud and grateful for that,” she said.
The scholarship also paved the way for Butler’s personal and professional growth. “I plan to go back to school next semester, and it feels good to have everything prepared without worrying about my kids’ care,” she added. Her children now look forward to school each day, excited to share their learning experiences.
“These scholarships truly are blessings,” Butler emphasized. “Now, my children have something to look forward to and are treated like any other kids, no matter their background. I am so very grateful for this blessing.”
For those interested in contributing or learning more, visit websterreadystart.com. Matching funds from the state for the 2025-26 school year are only available until January 30, 2025.